Should you upgrade your Mac to macOS Ventura?

macOS 13 is now available for everyone and it comes with a variety of new features like Stage Manager, Continuity Camera, iCloud Shared Photo Library, and more. But should you install macOS Ventura on your Mac right away? Follow along to figure out what the best option is for you.

Some of my favorite gear

eufyCam with HomeKit Secure Video

Protect your home with HomeKit Secure Video, a wireless design, and no monthly fee.

macOS Ventura was relatively stable during the beta testing period from June until October. However, some testers saw long delays for notifications and crashing/bugs with apps like Photos and Messages.

But it may be tempting to install the new OS to get the headlining features like Stage Manager, Continuity Camera with iPhone/Mac, new capabilities in Mail and Messages, iCloud Shared Photo Library, and more.

• macOS 13 Ventura: These are the Macs that will support the new operating system
• These macOS Ventura features are exclusive to Apple Silicon-powered Macs

Should you install macOS Ventura?

TL;DR: if you have concerns about app stability, performance issues, and other bugs, the best bet will be to hold out for at least the next update.

• If you have critical apps that must work, check for Ventura compatibility before upgrading
• If you’re cool with the possibility of initial bugs and mostly minor issues, go for it!
• If you still aren’t sure, install Ventura on a secondary Mac if you have one – or hold off for now
• Remember to make a fresh backup before installing macOS Ventura 😁

Lastly, you could opt to install the new OS on a separate, bootable USB drive (steps for Monterey should work for Ventura):

Some of my favorite gear

Apple home key Aqara Smart Lock

Upgrade your lock with Apple home key, HomeKit, and fingerprint smarts.

• How to create a bootable macOS Monterey USB Install drive [Video]

For a closer look at all the changes and new features coming with macOS Ventura, check out our full video below:

Thanks for reading our guide on answering “should you install macOS Ventura?”!

Read more 9to5Mac tutorials:

• How to install iOS and iPadOS 16.1 plus uninstall the beta
• M2 iPad Pro vs iPad Air: What do you gain or give up?
• iPad 10 vs 9 vs iPad Air: How the new affordable iPad lineup compares
• How to see steps with Apple Watch including distance and custom complications

FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.